Young scientist Matteo Paz made a big discovery in high school, one that astronomers and astrophysicists can use in their research. Paz developed a new AI algorithm that allowed him to detect more than a million undiscovered objects in outer space. His research landed him first place at the 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search, which comes with a $250,000 cash prize. In this episode, Paz discusses his project and how both a mentor and motivation inspired him to learn and innovate. 

Matteo Paz attended Pasadena High School in California, where he was president and founder of the research club and mentored others in science contests. He graduated in 2025 and will attend MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) in the fall. His new AI algorithm was published in the Astronomical Journal in November 2024, while he was still in high school.